Staff Reporter: Quetta, November 29, 2025:
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has announced a comprehensive housing scheme for journalists working under challenging conditions across the province. Recognizing the financial struggles of media workers surviving on limited salaries, the provincial government has not only allocated land but will also ensure that ready-to-occupy flats are handed over within a year.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Quetta, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of responsible and truthful journalism for Pakistan’s stability. “Free and credible media is the backbone of society,” he said, noting that Balochistan’s journalists have consistently upheld the highest standards of professional reporting despite facing numerous risks.
CM Bugti highlighted that while criticism is part of democracy, journalists in Balochistan have always maintained a responsible approach, and the government respects their work. He also encouraged media professionals to embrace digital platforms alongside traditional print and electronic media to promote truth and transparency.
Unlike traditional schemes, this initiative will provide journalists not only with land but fully constructed flats. Special provisions will be made for low-income media workers and the families of deceased journalists, who will receive flats free of cost. Moreover, the children of fallen journalists will get free education, covering expenses at local and international institutions, including prestigious schools and universities.
Flats will be allocated on a merit and need basis, with the most disadvantaged receiving them through a lottery system, while others can purchase at half-price through easy installments. The Chief Minister instructed authorities to start work immediately and ensure that the project meets the highest construction standards.
CM Bugti also spoke about the threats journalists face, including kidnappings and pressure from anti-state groups. He expressed solidarity with media professionals and reiterated his commitment to supporting the truth while standing against injustice.
“Journalists should view this housing scheme not as charity, but as their right,” he added, urging the media to continue promoting truth and discourage blackmail or misuse of power.
The ceremony concluded with the handover of the Journalists Housing Society documents to Press Club President Irfan Saeed and senior journalists, marking a historic step toward improving the welfare of Balochistan’s media community. Senior officials, provincial ministers, and dozens of media workers attended the event, celebrating what has been a 35-year-old dream for the province’s journalists.
